Local coffee production under threat

ADVERSE climate change conditions are posing a threat to local coffee production with projections estimating a decrease of between 300-350 metric tonnes this year, a significant drop from the 450 metric tonnes produced the previous year.

Additionally, farmers are considering the removal of older crops, which could result in even lower yields for 2025, with anticipated production between 250-300 metric tonnes.

In a recent update, the Horticultural Development Council (HDC) said coffee growers are bracing for a challenging year as they expect to produce between 300-350 metric tonnes in 2024, from 450MT in 2023.

“The severe drought has hit coffee plantations this year. Farmers plan to remove older crops, which may lead to even lower yields in 2025, with an expected output of 250-300MT,” said the association.

It added that coffee production is projected at 400MT in 2026. “Looking ahead, coffee production is projected at 400MT in 2026. This recovery would rely on providing inputs to smallholder farmers on time, empowering them to increase production.

“For the sector to reach its potential, long-term investment to increase production is required,” said the association.
Zimbabwe is known for producing special coffee that is graded and scored based on various factors such as flavour, aroma and bean quality.

These speciality coffees are sought-after for their unique flavour profiles, often characterised by citrus, floral and berry notes. All of the coffee being produced in Zimbabwe is from Manicaland.

Unlike other crops, coffee can be grown on sloppy terrain. At its peak, the country used to be the second largest coffee producer after Brazil, but output gradually fell as farmers shunned coffee production due to the low prices offered by side marketers.

The country was famous for its super high quality and flavour of its coffee beans in the 1990s, which helped generate crucial foreign currency and a livelihood for many small scale and commercial farmers.-chroncile